i was trying to find a recipe for potato pancakes that didn’t include egg, since is allergic to eggs. i found this recipe that called for using silken tofu instead of eggs as the binding agent, so i thought i would try to use it in my batter for mashed potato and yam pancakes. the first dozen pancakes i made turned out really good, but the later ones i think the pan was too hot for, so they would brown fair too quickly but not be cooked enough inside. sigh.

the turkey hash i made with mushrooms was really good, though. and the homemade applesauce with cabernet had a beautiful color and nice mouth-feel. herman made a simple green salad.

, , , , herman, and myself were the attendees at tonight’s dinner. i didn’t really eat anything, though, except a bowl of the applesauce. i’m going to have to make more of that - it was fabulously yummy.

November 30th, 2003 | Uncategorized | No comments

soggy morning, walking to church in black leather trenchcoat and bowler, umbrella at the ready. letting the slow pace of my steps center my thoughts until no thoughts remain. crossing the threshold of the chapel, completely centered and calm, crossing myself and venerating the icon of St. Gregory the Wonderworker. greeting Father Constantine, and asking for his blessing. changing into the exorasson, the outer cassock, a voluminous black robe with wide sleeves and an amazing billowy grace to its drape.

orthros, the morning prayer service of the orthodox church. singing the psalms, praise him with the psaltery and harp, with stringed instruments and organs, let everything that has breath praise the lord.

the divine liturgy of st. john chrysostom, an ancient form, but not the most ancient. its power to draw one into contemplation and worship is potent, and the congregation is very calm and introspective.

today starts of the fast of the Nativity. no meat, oil, dairy, alcohol until January 6 (December 25 on the Old Calendar), except for Feast days, when some wine and fish is allowed. at least, i think that’s what it is. i’ll have to ask the Bishop to know for sure.

walking home, having partaken in monastery beans, rice and a cucumber and tomato salad for breakfast. umbrella sees its duty.

, , and are walking to Tandoori Grill around the corner for Indian buffet brunch. we stop and exchange greetings. i climb the stairs, unlock the door, go upstairs again to my cozy bedroom, where the goose down comforts me with its feathery embrace.

November 30th, 2003 | Uncategorized | No comments